“‘You are resting easy now. But when the superintendent comes back and finds that when he has left orders to punish a convict you favor him, I think you will have to find yourself another job.’ “When the superintendent entered, I experienced a feeling of relief. I exclaimed: ‘Well, well! Back, and looking fine. I was thinking of you this morning, hoping that you were having a good rest.’ “‘I did not rest much, for reasons that I will explain. I have here a letter, which I received before I left. It purports to have been written by the murderer for whom No. 78 is serving time.’ “‘You have such a letter? But why do you look so excited?’ “‘Have you had any trouble with the prisoner?’ “‘Well, yes and no.’ “‘What is the trouble? You answer me both ways.’ “‘I have placed him to work, and after I had done so I was informed that he refused to work. I was anxious to see for myself, and when I went to investigate, I found him doing his duty. Therefore that is why I answered you as I did.’ “‘To hard labor, as I instructed you to do?’ “‘Well, yes, hard labor for him, as he explained that he had never done any hard labor. I hope that you will be pleased with the work I have given him to do.’ “‘And what work has he been instructed to do?’ “‘I have given—well, I thought he could be very useful in doing such work as that, and I asked Pat to start him at once.’ “‘Yes, yes; I think that is a good job. Call Pat. Push button No. 9. Pat is an Irishman who will tell the truth.’ “‘You are very nervous. I have noticed your peculiar actions ever since we began to talk of this affair.’ “‘Good mornin’, your honor. I am very glad to see that you have returned.’ “‘I am glad to be here. Pat, what has become of No. 78? Is he working? I hope to have some knowledge of him when you have finished talking. I have not been able to find out much through Mr. Pearson, here.’ “Well, sir, I am only here to do as directed, and I follow instructions to the letter, and if I am told to go out and bate a fellow to death, I would do it, so in this case I did as I was instructed to do.’ “‘You are a noble officer, sir. I think you have been requested to tell me what has become of No. 78. As yet you have not followed your instructions.’ “‘I will bring the rascal in here and let him tell you what he is doing.’ “‘Is he running at large, doing nothing?’ “‘Yes, sir, and has the privilege of carrying some water along to take a drink when he gets thirsty.’ “‘Bring him here. I will try to find out from him what orders have been given him. “‘I am going to see if I can solve this mystery. Mr. Pearson, are you ill? You are looking very pale. Do you feel ill? What is the matter? Are you faint? “‘Come along, Pat, step lively. Bring your prisoner in, and call Doctor Gray. Mr. Pearson is very ill.’ “The prisoner entered, saying: ‘I am so glad to see you here and see you looking so refreshed.’